Sciatica; What is it? How we can help…

Sciatica is a common type of pain affecting the sciatic nerve, resulting in symptoms referring from your lower back down the back of each leg and in some cases, feet.

Sciatica Explainer Animation:

Due to the wide variety of symptoms and possible causes, it is imperative that you seek medical advice/attention. At Joy Lane Clinic, Whitstable, we have a team comprised of Osteopaths and Physio Therapists who will thoroughly examine you and provide you with an accurate diagnosis. This is crucial as we will prescribe/perform treatment/therapy tailored to you and get you on the road to recovery as fast as possible.

The term sciatica refers to a set of symptoms caused by an underlying medical condition and it’s NOT an actual medical diagnosis.

Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which branches from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down each leg. Typically, sciatica affects only one side of your body.

Sciatica pain is caused by irritation, inflammation, pinching or compression of a nerve in the lower back.

Sciatica Causes:

  • Lumbar spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal in your lower back).
  • Degenerative disk disease (the breakdown of discs, which act as cushions between the vertebrae).
  • Disc bulge (slipped disc).
  • Spondylolisthesis (a condition in which one vertebra slips forward over another one).
  • Pregnancy.
  • Muscle spasm.

Common symptoms of sciatica include:

  • Lower back pain.
  • Pain in the rear or leg that is worse when sitting.
  • Hip pain.
  • Burning or tingling down the leg.
  • Weakness, numbness, or a hard time moving the leg or foot.
  • Constant pain on one side of the rear.
  • A shooting pain that makes it hard to stand up.

Treatment:

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers & NSAIDs.
  • Prescription muscle relaxants to ease muscle spasms.
  • Treatment from a qualified medical practitioner.
  • Exercise regime prescribed by a medical practitioner.

How long does sciatica last?

Sciatica can be acute or chronic.

An acute episode may last between one and two weeks and usually resolves itself in a few weeks.

It’s fairly common to experience some numbness for a while after the pain has subsided.

 Chronic sciatica may last for months or years if left untreated.

If manual therapy does not help then further intervention such as corticosteroid injections and/or surgery may be required.

It is important to continue with physical activity and keep up with routine exercises and lifestyle modifications to prevent your sciatica from recurring.

In general, it is best to seek the help of a qualified medical professional who can guide you on the path to recovery.

If you are experiencing pain or just generally concerned then please get in touch with us today as early intervention reduces the likelihood of symptoms becoming chronic and impacting on your daily life for longer than they have to.

Contact Joy Lane Clinic to make an appointment

Whitstable Clinic: 01227 266439 or 01227 779485
Porthall Clinic: 07955 252074
Email: info@joylaneclinic.co.uk